Since 1998, the Georgia CIO Leadership Association (GCLA) CIO of the Year® Award has recognized excellence among C-level executives in the IT/ IS space. The Georgia CIO of the Year Awards is the premier technology executive recognition program in the state. The program honors technology executives who have shown excellence in managing enterprise-wide information systems in Georgia.

“This award recognizes Memorial's vision and leading role in health information technology. I’m proud that MUMC stood out as leader among peers from all industries. I am very fortunate to work with a team that understand the value of technology and is committed to using technology to improve patient care, services, and operations,” said Lavely.

Lavely oversees the day-to-day operations and strategy of the 90 employees and $17 million dollar budget of MUMC’s information services department. She works with community healthcare leaders and coordinates with clinicians to enhance the use of advanced clinical systems. Lavely also provides leadership and support to a number of committees working to improve and develop information technology in the Savannah community.

Founded in 2003, the Georgia CIO Leadership Association (GCLA) is the professional organization for Georgia’s information technology leaders. Its membership is comprised exclusively of chief information officers or individuals in equivalent positions at companies and organizations throughout the state.